2025 Executive Board
The 2025 Executive Board was elected in March 2025 and will serve until April 1st, 2026.

President
Gavin Cox
Gavin is a dedicated Democratic organizer and communications professional with deep roots in Volusia County’s progressive movement. He currently serves as Organizing Director for Rising Voices Collective, as well as CD7 Chair for the Florida Democratic Party and Membership Chair for the Florida LGBTQ+ Democratic Caucus. With experience ranging from campus organizing to congressional campaigns, Gavin brings a strategic, passionate approach to Democratic activism in Florida!
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Vice President
Gabrielle Adekunle
Gabrielle is our Vice President of Volusia Young Democrats. She also serves as the YDA Representative for Florida Young Dems and Vice Chair of the Volusia Democratic Party. She got her start in politics after the 2020 BLM protests, founding Take Action Florida to uplift activism and education around intersectional social issues. Gabrielle has held a wide range of leadership roles, currently Campaign Manager for Josh Weil for Senate. She’s committed to doing whatever it takes to turn Volusia blue.
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Treasurer
Matthew Burnette
If there's a job in Florida politics, Matt has done it. From managing a congressional campaign to running countywide field operations, he has proven an effective organizer and adept political mind. Matt most recently served as the Campaign Manager for Brandon Peters' impressive run for State House. He was elected Treasurer in 2021 and re-elected in 2022 and 2023.

Secretary
Emma Ridge
Emma Ridge can’t wait to serve as Secretary of the Volusia Young Democrats, where she will bring her sharp attention to detail and strong organizational skills to the table. A professional stenographer by trade, she’s no stranger to fast-paced environments and accurate record-keeping. ​When she’s not advocating for progressive change in her community, she enjoys traveling to new places and unwinding with a good TV binge.

Communications Officer
Lauren Donato
Lauren is our VYD Communications Officer for 2025! Her day job consists of auditing, but outside of work, you'll usually find her planning her next international travel adventure, working up a sweat at Orangetheory, cooking up a masterpiece in the kitchen, training for her next half marathon, or spending time with her dog, Wrigley, who's named after Wrigley Field in Chicago because she is a HUGE Cubs fan! With a passion for clear, effective communication, she looks forward to keeping our members informed and engaged!

Fundraising and Development Officer
Rakeem Ford
Rakeem Ford serves as the Fundraising and Development Officer for the Volusia County Young Democrats, bringing passion and strategy to building the financial foundation for local political change. A graduate of Florida A&M University with both a B.S. in Business Administration and an MBA, he works as a grant manager for a national nonprofit focused on clean water and environmental justice. Rakeem is also the youngest and first Gen Z appointee to the West Volusia Hospital Authority, where he serves as a County Commissioner. His leadership is rooted in uplifting underserved communities and empowering the next generation through civic engagement and inclusive development.




